

For Whom The Bell Tolls
5 snips Aug 28, 2023
Mark Cirino, an Ernest Hemingway scholar and author, delves into the complexities of Hemingway's novel, For Whom the Bell Tolls. He explores its historical significance and the intricate narrative techniques that Hemingway employed. Cirino highlights the personal connections of Robert Jordan to Hemingway's life and discusses themes of morality and the human experience amidst war. Their conversation culminates in a quest for the book's 'one true sentence,' showcasing the emotional depth and innovative storytelling that define Hemingway's work.
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Hemingway's Comeback
- For Whom the Bell Tolls was Hemingway's comeback novel after a period of less successful works in the 1930s.
- It was published in 1940, signifying a return to form after a 14-year gap from The Sun Also Rises.
Hemingway's Connection to Spain
- Hemingway's connection to the Spanish Civil War stemmed from his deep affection for Spain and its culture.
- He first visited Spain in 1923 and developed a personal investment in its fate.
Autobiographical Elements
- For Whom the Bell Tolls incorporates autobiographical elements, such as Robert Jordan's family history mirroring Hemingway's own.
- Both their fathers committed suicide, and their grandfathers were Civil War heroes.